Which pigment is primarily responsible for absorbing sunlight during photosynthesis in plants?

• A. Xanthophyll
• B. Chlorophyll a
• C. Anthocyanin
• D. Carotene

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the role of pigments in photosynthesis. Pigments are molecules that absorb specific wavelengths of light and are essential for capturing sunlight energy during photosynthesis.
2. Step 2: Learn about the primary pigment involved in photosynthesis. Chlorophyll a is the main pigment responsible for absorbing sunlight and converting it into chemical energy. It absorbs light most efficiently in the blue-violet and red wavelengths.
3. Step 3: Differentiate between other pigments mentioned in the problem. Xanthophyll, anthocyanin, and carotene are accessory pigments that play secondary roles, such as protecting the plant from excess light or contributing to coloration, but they are not the primary pigments for photosynthesis.
4. Step 4: Recognize the importance of chlorophyll a in the light-dependent reactions of photosynthesis. Chlorophyll a is located in the thylakoid membranes of chloroplasts and is directly involved in the excitation of electrons during the light-dependent reactions.
5. Step 5: Conclude that chlorophyll a is the correct answer because it is the primary pigment responsible for absorbing sunlight and driving the photosynthetic process in plants.